18.1% of Adults are Diagnosed with Anxiety
Welcome back everyone!
Last week I touched on what anxiety might look like, but this week we will further explore anxiety in adulthood. Many, almost all of us, have experienced anxiety at some point in our life. However, for many it is a persistent, scary problem. It has been reported that 18.1% of the adult population (ages 18-54) in the United States receive treatment for anxiety disorders. While an additional 10% suffer from anxiety, but it goes without acknowledgement. This means that over a quarter of the adult population in the United States is impacted with excessive levels of anxiety.
Anxiety can be provoked by many things. For many people, anxiety is hereditary, but life experiences, such as trauma can provoke symptoms related to anxiety. For example, women are twice as likely to experience anxiety than men and they are even more likely to experience anxiety if they have been inflicted with a trauma, such as rape. There are also medical related issues that could impact one’s anxiety levels. It has been reported that adults with heart disease, diabetes, thyroid problems, respiratory disorders, drug or alcohol misuse, chronic pain, irritable bowel syndrome, or even tumors can induce symptoms of anxiety.
Unfortunately, high levels of anxiety can impact daily life. Adults might notice that they struggle with low self-esteem and social situations. They might also feel that they cannot have successful romantic or intimate relationships. Others might notice barriers within the work place due to feelings of inadequacy. This can ultimately cause the individual to feel like they are losing control of their own life.
Many may ignore these feelings because they are so sure that this is normal, when in reality it just continues to get worse. Individuals with persistent symptoms of anxiety are encouraged to seek help. While relief from anxiety may not be immediate, learning to cope with the symptoms will eventually lead to a more healthy, balanced, and fulfilling life.
Stay tuned next week to learn more about the treatment of anxiety disorders.
Source: https://adaa.org/about-adaa/press-room/facts-statistics
Emily Mori, MS, LGPC, NCC, CAS, ADHD-CCSP
As a strength-based therapist I believe mindfulness is the best approach to life's challenges. I help to empower clients seeking to move forward and to achieve their wellness goals.